Savingpontiac.org

Some days are just for fun

2010-10-18T10:01:00.003-04:00

This is from Hot Wax International's Pontiac Girls. Some days we should just have fun!!!

My best to everyone this week!

Obama and Maslow

2010-10-09T08:43:00.002-04:00

Maslow had it right!

Famed Psychologist Abraham Maslow developed his hierarchy of needs in the 1940’s and the 1950’s. The five levels of human needs have been an important part of motivation, leadership and management since it first was published. We need to look no further than this great piece of work to understand what is wrong in America.

The five levels of needs are as follows:

1. Biological and Physiological needs - air, food, drink, shelter, warmth, sex, sleep, etc.

2. Safety needs - protection from elements, security, order, law, limits, stability, etc.

3. Belongingness and Love needs - work group, family, affection, relationships, etc.

4. Esteem needs - self-esteem, achievement, mastery, independence, status, dominance, prestige, managerial responsibility, etc.

5. Self-Actualization needs - realizing personal potential, self-fulfillment, seeking personal growth and peak experiences.

The principle is that humans work and live through each level of needs consecutively. That is, once level one is fulfilled a human will move to level two and so forth until they reach level five. Of particular importance is that when a lower level of needs is no longer fulfilled a person will revert of trying to fulfill that need and not the level he/she had reached.

In a simple example, when someone is having their house repossessed, you cannot expect them to focus on a world currency, health care for all, or even a war to help other nations. Yet, the latter items seem to be what our Government is focused on achieving.

Seemingly the vast majority of the electorate in the country has reverted to levels one and two. The examples of why they would be clinging to these levels are truly so numerous they cannot be all enumerated. A couple of examples: Laws are not enforced (immigration, GM bankruptcy, voter disruption, health care law exemptions, home foreclosures, bank fraud, etc.). Belief in our Government’s ability to properly respond and manage the country (Katrina, BP oil spill, bank bail out, unemployment, lobbyists, healthcare). Unemployment continues unabated and there are no programs in place to create jobs.

Many have said that we are not “on the same page”; the taxpayers and Government. Truly we are not on the same page and the hierarchy of needs explains why and what needs to be done by the Country’s leadership. As in any business or in any management role, the leaders must lead at the level of their constituencies. If your employee is worried about losing his job because his employer might go out of business, you do not encourage him by talking about strategic initiatives of the next five years. No, you spend the time explaining and demonstrating that the Company has a bright short term future and he should not be concerned.

In contrast, what we see daily is a Governmental leadership that has a “don’t worry be happy” attitude. Instead of leading on the level of the hierarchy in which the electorate lives our leaders seem to be focused on their personal self actualization while telling the followers that it will get better soon. President Obama’s proclamation that we should “buck up” only confirms that he is happy at level five and can’t be bothered with the predicament of the masses.

When a collective we, are managed on the level at which we live that means we are all on the same page and we are working together to move everyone to the next level. This is not hard to do, it is more empathy and a willingness to show compassion by acknowledging the level on which the followers live and taking some actions to ensure the followers that the leaders are working to solve the problems.

Imagine if tomorrow you woke up and the Government was working on real American jobs. Suddenly they would be leading at the level on the hierarchy that you can agree with. Imagine if it was announced tomorrow that Pontiac was reinvented and 60,000 jobs would result. On the same page? Of Course. www.savingpontiac.org

America Is a Yard Sale

2010-10-01T08:36:00.002-04:00

Does it strike you that America has become a Walmart with no employees and no security but the doors are open? What other country allows border crossings to steal jobs? What other country allows currency imbalances of up to 40% that results in jobs leaving the country? What other country allows its oil and gas to be plundered for less than market rates to be sold back to its citizens for $4 a gallon? What other country allows its middle class to be plundered to make sure China and India are happy?

It is a yard sale with the owner permanently at lunch. Arianna Huffington has it right; we are a third world country. The analogies are plain. Whether it is blood diamonds in Africa, Bauxite in Jamaica, or rain forest timber in Malaysia, we are allowing our country to be similarly plundered. And this all at the expense of the American public.

Turbo Tax Timmy has all the right causes and in fact seems to understand them. With understanding a backbone does not come. It is time to stop this nonsense and return to a modicum of nationalism that can restore our pride and more importantly restore our economy and the middle class. Ask yourself; Does China or Germany allow the rest of the world to strip their resources? Of course not! And guess which countries are doing "just fine" in this worldwide downturn.

America is a country not a yard sale. Our priorities should be to Americans not to "the world". While I agree that these problems are not the doing of President Obama, he is the President when we have reached the tipping point and must actually do something to stop the wholesale destruction of this nation and for the good of the world. America must take its place as the consumer for the world and not the yard sale for the world. It is time!!!

Please visit savingpontiac.org for more of the facts.

Germany is Fine; What About Us?

2010-09-28T09:47:00.002-04:00

"BERLIN (AP) — German business confidence unexpectedly rose to its highest level in over three years in September as a stronger economy supported business"

Unemployment is down and the economy as well as exports is growing. Why? Manufacturing. The US has let it's manufacturing base dwindle and we are struggling because of it. In fact, it is the exact reason the administration's stimulus did not work. There was no manufacturing base to stimulate to create goods for Americans. Instead we sent the stimulus money to China for imports.

We must save every jobs we can!

Economic Recovery Ideas by Obama

2010-09-08T10:33:00.003-04:00

President Obama is to issue newly planned recovery measures today. One is extension of the R&D tax credit, one is the proposal of infrastructure investment, and the last is related to tax credits for investment. All these may be a good part of an overall plan but none of them resonate with Voters that jobs are on the way.

It seems easy to us that by saving Pontiac and using the assets that the taxpayers already own, we would see American jobs right away and the Administration could show real job creation instead of some sort of credit that may or may not create jobs.

Just my thoughts. Have a wonderful day!

Aliens in Our Midst

2010-09-04T10:51:00.002-04:00

Headlines in the New York Times proclaimed today:

Growth in Jobs Beats Estimates, Easing Concerns

I do not know what Country the Author lives in but it cannot be the United States. Middle Americans must fight with the Mainstream media over concerns about unemployment...this is outrageous.

I read a Woody Allen quote this morning that says it all: "That's one thing about intellectuals: They've proved that you can be absolutely brilliant and have no idea what's going on."

We need to take every; every jobs opportunity available and more specifically on manufacturing. Why can the media, like the NYT, understand that we need jobs not absurd headlines.

Have a wonderful weekend!

Stimulus works....just not here!

2010-08-16T10:00:00.003-04:00

The Stimulus Works! Just not in America.

The New York Times ran an interesting opinion piece today entitled “Return of the Killer Trade Deficit”. The conclusions were both fascinating and, frankly, unfounded.

In this article the American trade deficit was essentially blamed on others; specifically Germany and China. This is in lock step with the Obama administration’s requests at the G-20 for Germany to not end stimulus spending (deficit reduction), continue spending wildly and, oh yeah, cut back on those exports. In sports terms this is like the St. Louis Rams asking the New Orleans Saints not to score too many points, as that might make the Rams look bad.

The trade deficit is not a living thing or even a tool of other countries. The US trade deficit is in fact the culmination of years of neglected trade management in the US that has resulted in the destruction of the manufacturing base in America. Just as the Rams made many poor decisions in player and coach selections over the years the Saints made sound choices that resulted in the Saints being a better team. America has made poor choices related to trade.

In the last year, unemployment in Germany has dropped from 8+% to 7% and appears to be on a trajectory to move lower. Over the last year or so the economies of Germany and China have grown significantly and yet the US, as it is phrased, continues to lose steam and thus our President is compelled to ask that those countries quit scoring points. This, despite huge stimulus spending in the Untied States.

Just like the bailout of AIG to the tune of $165 Billion there is a direct flow-through pipe to foreign countries for our stimulus spending. When we bailed out AIG, within minutes the money was wired to overseas banks that were the so called counter-parties. Similarly, when the stimulus money was put into the hands of the general public in the form of a Keynesian demand stimulus, it did create demand; just not for American goods because we no longer manufactured the goods demanded. Germany and China were the beneficiaries of the demand creating stimulus.

Our Country abandoned managing trade policies and started assuming that the world economy would act rationally with the admission of China to the WTO in 1999 and adoption of NAFTA and similar free trade agreements. We are, however, still individual teams known as countries competing for an economic trophy. The choices of Germany and China were to protect and grow their manufacturing base and thus create a way to manage their economy in the face of world wide recession and they recovered quite nicely (won the trophy).

Blame is pointless for the past. Our leadership now must acknowledge we made bad choices and change our direction. As an old boss used to say: There are three rules of decision making: 1) Never make a decision until it is time; 2) when the time comes make a decision; 3) If the decision is wrong, change it! It is time to change our trade policies and change to support manufacturing again in the United States. (visit www.savingpontiac.org for more)

Great 1965 Bonneville Picture

2010-08-13T10:55:00.004-04:00

Love it when someone sends in a personal car.

This is a magnificent '65 Bonneville Convertible. It reminds me of growing up with these wonderful cars.

Our Thanks to Louis...

A good day to all!

Thoughts on Jobs

2010-07-30T16:54:00.001-04:00

JOBS? Not….

So our Administration is worried about jobs. Or at least they would have us believe that. Let’s look at the reality.

The Obama administration recently said that the car bailout saved 1,000,000 jobs. How many jobs were killed in the process? By demanding that Saturn and Pontiac be ended it is estimated that at least 120,000 jobs were destroyed. As a practical matter, all the 1,000,000 jobs would not have gone away. If the various divisions of General Motors had been sold or spun off let’s estimate that ½ half of the jobs would have survived and ALL of the pension liabilities would have been left behind in a proper bankruptcy process and would have required no bailout money.

Had we not bailed out GM, and allowed the bankruptcy process to work as designed, it is likely that 500,000 jobs would have survived out of the 1,000,000 and it is likely that the 120,000 from Pontiac and Saturn would have survived so that is a net loss of 380,000 jobs and no bailout money and no bailout of GMAC and no bailout of the pension plans that will eventually occur. So let’s say that ultimately the total bailout cost $120 Billion. That is about $316,000 per job saved. That is $120 Billion that could have been spent on creating new jobs and encouraging investment in America.

Then we have the Healthcare legislation that passed recently. In a story in June of 2010 the family owned White Castle Restaurants indicated that the cost of healthcare may put them out of business. This one family owned business represents 10,000 jobs. How many others are just like them?

Following Healthcare there is the problem with the threatened Cap N Trade legislation. In this Hannity piece from Obama’s time as a candidate for President, it is obvious that if he gets his version of the legislation passed it will kill many American jobs (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9wzNUZVv0A0&feature=player_embedded ). President Obama admits that the cost of electricity would skyrocket and we would bankrupt coal powered plants.

Next is the effort to thwart Congress in the immigration legislation. This article (http://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2010/jul/29/memo-outlines-backdoor-amnesty-plan-for-obama ) in the Washington Times indicates that there are active efforts to by-pass congress to create an Amnesty program for all who are here illegally. What does this do to trust in our Government and the business atmosphere?

Finally, out of nowhere a moratorium on Gulf Oil Drilling appears from the administration. In this article from the Huffington Post (http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2010/06/21/gulf-oil-spill-job-losses_n_619238.html ) it is estimated that 1,000,000 jobs will be lost over 5 years.

It is unfortunate that the policies of this administration and the underhanded manner in which it conducts business will force unemployment to reach higher levels and there will not be a recovery for many years to come. We at www.savingpontiac.org have relentlessly encouraged the Administration to give Pontiac another try and consider an investment tax credit for business investment. Now we wonder if even these measures would spur the economy.

Thoughts for Today

2010-07-27T13:42:00.002-04:00

No Plan. Did You Notice?

What is the economic plan for the recovery of the US economy? Has anyone put forth a plan? Obama, Pelosi, Gingrich, Geithner, Palin, Beck or Reid….not one has a plan. Weekly we debate issues by these talking heads. There are tax increases, tax cuts, financial reform, healthcare, extended unemployment but no one has put forth a plan for recovery. These weekly debates are about individual issues not a comprehensive recovery plan.

It can only be assumed that the Administration’s plan is that the original stimulus package would carry the economic recovery. We know that is not working and for all appearances will never work to recreate jobs on the scale necessary for recovery. Are deficits a problem? Sure they are but whether they go up or go down the result will not create jobs.

Our country’s economic makeup has gone through some structural changes over the last 20 years that have been ignored. The lack of management of these changes was conveniently obscured by two bubbles that allowed the appearance of well being but were really nothing but an opportunity for our citizens to incur huge debt balances on imaginary assets. The bubbles obfuscated the inconvenient truth that we were becoming a nation without sustainable jobs and a disappearing middle class.

There are 4 inescapable problems that face our recovery that not one of those talking heads will address. Why? Because they are tough problems that none of the so called leaders want to lead a plan for fixing this economy.

The first two problems and likely the most difficult and at the same time controversial are that we have let a full 1/3 of the manufacturing jobs leave this country since 2000 and that we continue to allow a 25% to 40% currency imbalance with China to exist. 6,000,000 manufacturing jobs have disappeared since China was admitted to the WTO in 1999. Preceding that event, in 1995 The US entered into what is known as the Reverse Plaza Accord to prop up the currencies of China and other Far East currencies against the dollar.

As our country began to evolve into the so called service economy from one based on manufacturing we began the decline in our ability to manage our economy. Much has been written about why the “stimulus” failed. The easy answer to that is that under the Keynesian rules, injection of money into the economy should increase demand and create jobs. What Mr. Keynes did not anticipate is that those injections would only increase imports because the goods were not made within the economy that was stimulated. As China and Germany report recovery growth we can see the result of our stimulus helping them and not America.

Similarly and in the same context we allow the currency differential to promote foreign manufacturing of the goods consumed in this country. Obviously, manufacturers in the US cannot compete with a 40% price differential before the cost of labor differential is even considered.

The third issue is the bleeding ulcer known as Fannie and Freddie. Why is no one talking about these debt bombs in our economy? The taxpayers have paid, already, $145 billion to keep the mortgages and guarantees afloat. It has been estimated that this cost could reach $1 Trillion. That is only a few hundred million less than Obama’s projected deficits for 2010 and 2011 but no one will talk about it. And, oh by the way, these cost are not part of the projected deficit but none the less will become part of our national debt.

As demonstrated with manufacturing, the big cause of ignoring this issue is that China bought many of the mortgage bonds that we now guarantee as a country. We seem unable to confront the many issues that China is causing by being a large investor in the US.

Finally we are continuing to let jobs slip through our fingers. While it was a bit pricey, President Obama underwriting the solar businesses a couple of weeks ago is the right thing to do. Without the Government underwriting, these businesses would likely have gone overseas. As taxpayers we bought GM. Remember that? There are about 120,000 jobs in the remnants of Saturn and Pontiac and those mothballed plants we own. Why would we not recreate these American jobs instead of continuing to send these jobs overseas?

What should we plan? For the first two items, Andy Grove had a wonderful piece recently that detailed the necessity of having a tariff war with China to end the currency problems and he detailed the necessity of encouraging investment in manufacturing jobs at home. The latter item could be accomplished by re-instituting the Investment Tax Credit that JFK used so successfully starting an economic renaissance in 1962. The credit existed until 1986 and was a huge lift to our economy.

As for Fannie and Freddie, there is a simple plan that could be instituted. Our citizens are struggling with foreclosure and mortgages that are underwater. As so many times we have elected to support others; not our taxpayers. It is apparent that our politicians would prefer to pay out 100% of the unsupportable mortgage guarantees rather than stop foreclosures with a 25% haircut to the bond and mortgage holders. This answer does not add to the deficit. Do we really believe that our credit rating will be diminished? In comparison to whom? Is China going to invest elsewhere or sell goods elsewhere? We have not opened Venus just yet.

Finally, we must plan to underwrite every sustainable job we can find. The previously mentioned Pontiac and Saturn jobs are two that are on my mind. We already own the assets and the minimal Government finding required would result in real jobs not census takers. (see www.savingpontiac.org) .

Summarily, I believe it is scary that we cannot have a discussion about the real problems that face us. Of course wars and deficits are important. We seem however to be stuck on these things rather than those that could create a genuine recovery and could help the taxpayers of the United States quickly. What is really scary is that no one has a plan.

Great Bandit 2010 video

2010-06-30T14:24:00.000-04:00

Our Fans!

2010-06-04T06:26:00.002-04:00

Thanks to all our fans! This picture was recently submitted by Steven S. A great picture of the T/A mock up. Love it!

Another fan, Harry T. wrote the following this week:

I'd like to thank all of you for the time and work you have invested in saving Pontiac.

I, myself, am a rabid Pontiac fanatic. Every car I've ever owned has been a Pontiac; all but one has been a musclecar. If I may, so you can see what I mean, I've owned the following Pontiacs (all used) in order from first to current:

'66 Le Mans
'67 GTO
'70 GTO (white)
'69 GTO
'68 GTO
'70 GTO (black)
'73 Firebird Formula 400
'77 Trans Am
'84 Trans Am (currently)

As you can see, I've lived and breathed Pontiac.

Love you guys...thanks so very much!!!

Great Show...Great people!

2010-05-15T09:06:00.003-04:00

Visit DAPA.ORG

June 5th, 2010

Details all there....Have a wonderful weekend!

Douglas MacArthur where are you when we need you?

2010-05-12T06:37:00.002-04:00

Great Show....Everyone Should Visit!

2010-05-03T07:56:00.003-04:00

The DFW club is sponsoring this Great Show on June 5th in Dallas. We will post the details shortly on the web site....These guys are great and have a wonderful club (details on club site http://www.dapa.org/psn2010 )!

Thanks to all and have a wonderful week!!

New Pic...always welcome

2010-04-21T08:34:00.003-04:00

Suzanne, a new facebook friend, sends this pic of her Firebird.

I am uncertain if this is a factory color....but we love it!

Thanks Suzanne.

To everyone...have a wonderful Wednesday!!!

C'mon Man!

2010-04-19T10:40:00.002-04:00

Please read our new front page post today.

GM has no chance...they make 4 out 5 worst rated on reliability cars today. And they owe the Union and The Government over $60 Billion while they continue to lose $1 billion per month. All the while Texas just keeps on keepin' on!

Thanks to all for your support!!

Thanks to Dil

2010-04-12T09:32:00.002-04:00

Dil, one of our supporters sent this picture of his GTO!

Wow...great car and thank you Dil!

to all have a wonderful and blessed Monday!!

Happy Easter!

2010-04-03T07:17:00.002-04:00

A very happy Easter to all and a big bunny hug for all our supporters!

Have a wonderful and blessed weekend!

Do you really love Pontiac?

2010-03-31T06:34:00.002-04:00

This Photo came to us from one of our very first members.

You Pontiac fans are great....this is true dedication.

We can only thank you and do our best to bring this incredible brand back. Your support (and tats) are the way we will get there!

Thanks to all and have a wonderful Thursday!

Let's Go For More

2010-03-18T10:31:00.004-04:00

Hello everyone and welcome to Thursday.

I looked at that last blog and realized that I was a little too serious so the picture of Brittany comes out drivng a '67 GTO to lighten things up.

I think we are making progress with all out contacts and our letter writing campaigns. I am equally certain that the Healthcare matter has gotten in the way of consideration of anythings else by the Administration.

As always thanks for sticking with our efforts and have a wonderful and blessed Thursday!!

I Remember Team America

2010-03-16T10:11:00.003-04:00

Whether it was 1776, 1787, 12/7/1941, or most recently 9/11/2001 America pulled together as a team. We were destined to defeat a common enemy and problem that only was achieved through working together.

With all partisanship aside, there seem to be too many teams to count. And, what game they are trying to win. Right now the citizens of our Country seem to be saying we should focus on the economy and jobs. Our administration seems to be focused on everything else. Healthcare, Immigration, Financial reform, and Education all need focus but they do not seem to be where the electorate wants to focus. It will take determination and laser like resolve by everyone in this country to fix the economy and the jobs problems. Most importantly is how and with whom we spend our money.

Consider three recent examples of the mindset that exists and must change:

- Gm has elected to send somewhere between $2.6 billion and $3 Billion of taxpayer money to Europe for Opal's recovery and Cadillac marketing. This is taxpayer money that we need to spend in the US to help our economy!

- In February Diane Sawyer reported that: Nearly $2 billion in money from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act has been spent on wind power, funding the creation of enough new wind farms to power 2.4 million homes over the past year. But the study found that nearly 80 percent of that money has gone to foreign manufacturers of wind turbines.

- Yesterday it was reported that: Hillary Rodham Clinton's State Department is spending $5.4 million to buy fine crystal stemware for American embassies -- but it won't give the US economy much of a boost. (The contract went to a Swedish Company)

Where is the dedication to spending to support America? Where is the outrage of the Unions and Government officials? If we cannot expect our Government to spend to support our American economy and the jobs in America, where do we turn? In 1941 did we ask anyone other than Americans to build tanks and aircraft carriers? After 9/11, did we ask other countries to implement The Patriot Act or repair the damage on the hallowed ground in NYC?

Let's get back to the business of America, using the American team that has pulled us through so much in the past. The economy and jobs need the team work of everyone; not just some of us. Join with us at www.savinpontiac.org and sign our petition to save 60,000 American jobs.

Have a wonderful Tuesday!

Kevin McCarthy talks Job Creation

2010-03-15T10:09:00.004-04:00

Congressman Kevin McCarthy is actually talking about creating jobs. While we wait for action, this is one of the few politicians that is looking for ideas rather than just saying we need jobs (no kidding!).

We have contacted McCarthy's office and we would suggest those who are members here and those that are interested in creating American jobs should do the same.

His web site is http://kevinmccarthy.house.gov . Also, please see the Newsweek article about him here: http://www.newsweek.com/id/234929 .

As we have said we are non- partisan. If a Republican or a Democrat wants to create these Pontiac jobs, we would support that effort!

Thanks to all and have a wonderful Monday and a blessed week!

More Money to Europe

2010-03-08T09:34:00.002-05:00

I seems that General Motors forgot the purpose of the TARP funds. They were to provide stimulus at home...That is the United States of America.

In the last week, GM announced that they would commit $2.6 billion to the remake of Opal in Europe. We knew it was coming but didn't make us feel any better. Now they have announced an effort to promote Cadillac in Europe. I guess if they aren't selling in The US it makes sense to compete with BMW and Mercedes in Europe....com'on man! Just more taxpayer dollars over seas.

Savingpontiac.org believes these amounts should be spent at home for US jobs....Don't you?

Have a wonderful, safe and blessed Monday!!

New sales figures

2010-03-03T19:41:00.003-05:00

New GM February sales volumes are out now. (http://tinyurl.com/ydesogt) Remember that Pontiac was judged to be a worn out brand. In the worst Auto market in a long time, last February, 2009 Pontiac sold 14,200 units. That was 229% of the Buick unit sales and 201% more than Cadillac at that time.

In February 2010 Buick sold 9,121 units which was a 47% increase over 2009. This is still only 64% of what Pontiac sold in 2009. Similarly Cadillac had a 32% increase in unit sales but yet was only 65% of Pontiac sales in 2009.

The point of this is that Pontiac is a valuable asset that has been taken away from the taxpayers who own this important brand.

Thanks to everyone and hope you had a great Wednesday!

American jobs? Not this way!

2010-03-02T08:25:00.003-05:00

Everyone that thought the TARP funds were intended to encourage economic recovery in the United States, raise their hand! Yeah, me too.

In a stunning announcement, General Motors, has detailed a plan to triple it's commitment to Opal in Europe to a total of $2.6 Billion. This is taxpayer money spent to help America. I am trying to figure this out. (http://tinyurl.com/yb8s8lg)

There is a great article on The Huffington post by NYU Professor Gomory about why we need manufacturing capacity in the US. (http://tinyurl.com/yc6kw6w) Did I miss the part about our tax dollars rebuilding Europe? GM has committed our taxes to India, China, and Europe while spending huge amounts to close Saturn, Pontiac, and Hummer in the US. It just seems wrong!

Thanks to everyone and have a safe and blessed Tuesday!

JOBS NOW!

2010-03-01T09:01:00.003-05:00

Happy and Blessed Monday to all!

I ran on a great article from two very distinguished writers this morning posted on Politico.com (http://www.politico.com/news/stories/0210/33444.html

David Walker and Lawrence Mishel run two of the most influential foundations in America. Each has, perhaps a different view on recovery, but both agree that we must create jobs now! Just what we have been saying at Savinpontiac.org.

Please read the article and enjoy the views of these two great scholars!

Have a wonderful Monday!

FireBreather

2010-02-27T13:22:00.002-05:00

New future Movie Firebird. More info to come.

See http://forums.generationdub.com/showthread.php?t=33172

Thanks everyone and have a great Saturday!

More From Kevin Morgan

2010-02-25T06:16:00.002-05:00

This TransAm is Kevin's personal car. Truly a great lookin' Pontiac.

Please visit Kevin's site at http://www.kevinmorgandesigns.com

We have made some important connections in the Government over the last week. In addition, we have found some very important and influential sponsors for our project!

Thank to each of you for following and believing in our project.

May God Bless you and have a wonderful Thursday!

Kevin Morgan Design

2010-02-23T10:38:00.002-05:00

Our supporting designer Kevin Morgan (www.KevinMorganDesigns.com) provides this wonderful Trans Am for our members. Thanks Kevin....

To all have a wonderful and blessed Wednesday!

Tomorrow, our new blog by a member!

A Member Email

2010-02-17T13:24:00.003-05:00

I thought this was a great email worth sharing...my thanks to everyone for each little thing that you do!

Hello Ben,

I contacted you a month or so ago and let you know that Kevin Morgan would put your web site on his site. He just got back from working on designs for the next TransAm Prototype and let me know that savingpontiac.org is on his links page on his site.

I know its a "baby step" but everything that we can do to bring Pontiac back helps.

Just wanted to say I am honored to do my part.

Thanks for your time,

Robert Smith

Happy Valentines Day

2010-02-14T07:57:00.002-05:00

Good morning to everyone. Hopefully you are not snowed in which seems to be happening a lot lately. Or maybe that is a Good thing if you are with your valentine!

We continue our relentless crusade for the resurgence of Pontiac and I hope each of you are drawing in new members daily!

Thanks for sticking with this valiant cause we hope saving 60,000 jobs will come to fruition soon!

Have a wonderful and blessed Sunday!

Phil Valentine Show

2010-02-11T09:10:00.003-05:00

Yesterday we spent a full 15 minute segment on the nationally syndicated radio show by Phil Valentine (www.philvalentine.com). Mr. Valentine has an incredible resume of broadcast excellence and is very interested in our efforts.

Phil mentioned that he once drove a 1973 grand prix so today's picture is of that car. We thank Phil for the support and we will be looking for additional ways that we might work together.

Everyone have a wonderful and blessed day. My appreciation for all you do!

Bob Herbert NYT

2010-02-09T10:08:00.002-05:00

Bob Herbert of the NYT (http://www.nytimes.com/2010/02/09/opinion/09herbert.html) has written another wonderful article talking about the "Worst of the Pain" is with middle America. They really need jobs.

We at Savingpontiac.org have proposed creating jobs just for those people that feel that pain. We are relentlessly pushing to get the plain and simple solution implemented! Save Pontiac, create 60,000 jobs!!

Members, stay with us, help with the jobs we know can be created and push your congress members! Have a wonderful Tuesday!!

Political leanings?

2010-02-07T10:52:00.003-05:00

We sent out a member update this morning. One of our members shot back quickly that Savingpontiac.org was a Republican organization and would we please remove him from the mailing list.

With all respect, we are apolitical. If the Democrats, Republicans or the Tea Party want to help create 60,000 American jobs; we are behind them!

We are about American jobs and saving the Pontiac brand. We do not advocate for any candidate or any party.
Thanks to everyone for your continuing support. A great Super Sunday to ALL!!

Transition Article by Bob Herbert

2010-02-06T09:58:00.004-05:00

There is a great editorial by Bob Herbert in the NYT about time is running out for the US as an Economic force. (http://www.nytimes.com/2010/02/06/opinion/06herbert.html?ref=opinion )

We agree with Bob and have suggested that we use the assets we have in the interim; that is, until we can get to the transition. Using investment tax credits for older facilities and assets that are available would provide the transition time and jobs until we get to the Herbert solution.
Saving Pontiac would be among those interim solutions and would provide jobs for that interim period.

thanks, Bob for the piece and thanks to all our readers for your support. A wonderful and blessed Saturday to all!!

Scott Brown....Perhaps

2010-02-05T10:39:00.003-05:00

Proud Pontiac continues on the quest for our Government to do the right thing with Taxpayer assets.

This morning we have contacted Scott Brown's Chief Of staff, Steven Schrage. Scott has said we need jobs. Saving Pontiac is the perfect platform for him to build a legacy of truly supporting Main Street. We will see!

Very rainy and cold in The ATL today. Hope you do not get too much snow where you are today! Have a wonderful and blessed Friday!

My thanks to everyone!

Shrinking Capacity

2010-02-03T10:49:00.002-05:00

"During 2009, the nation's capacity to produce motor vehicles and chemicals fell 4.4% and 1.7%, respectively, the largest such declines since at least 1949, according to Federal Reserve estimates."
- Wall Street Journal - 2/3/10

Pathetic...and what is our leadership doing? worrying about Healthcare. If there is no middle America, there is no one to pay for any healthcare!

Saving Pontiac is 60,000 middle American jobs now! The President can show leadership with two pen strokes but yet he would rather talk about Infrastructure that will take years to produce jobs!

Thanks everyone and have a wonderful and blessed Wednesday!!

The job search contiues

2010-02-02T09:45:00.002-05:00

As our administration continues to search for jobs and considers alternatives that take years to become effective, they continue to overlook our opportunity. We have embarked on an effort to contact those who have influence in hope that our President has the courage to lead job creation without congressional help.

Please write or call your congressman to urge that we resurrect Pontiac!

My thanks to all...have a blessed Tuesday!!

Great News!

2010-01-31T06:12:00.002-05:00

Kevin Morgan of Kevin Morgan Designs has joined our team. (www.kevinmorgandesigns.com) From his website:

"I am a graphic designer from Canton, Pennsylvania. I have designed many things, one of my personal favorites is a Concept Trans Am based on the Chevy Camaro Concept. The Concept T/A has made it into several Magazines including Hot Rod, High Performance Pontiac, Pontiac Enthusiast, Popular Hot Rodding & Smoke Signals."

We are honored to have Kevin working for our goal and we are adding his site to our friends list. We continue to grow!

Great Sunday to all...Thank you for your support!

Are you kidding me?

2010-01-30T14:51:00.002-05:00

Obama and Biden are attending the Duke vs Georgetown basketball game as I type. We could be saving 60,000 jobs and those two are enjoying a game.

This is as outrageous as it gets. We have million of people unemployed and Obama is at a basketball game. Do the unemployed get Saturday off for basketball from being unemployed?

I will not say anymore but that this is truly unbelievable.
Have a great and blessed Saturday and thanks to each of you for your support!

A full year Profit for Ford

2010-01-28T10:05:00.002-05:00

Ford has shown what an American car Company can be...Great customer response; quality products and Profitable. There is more room for car Companies in America.

The Ford news is energizing and exciting for us and for others in this business. Our team is very focused on replicating the success of Ford and we need is a "go" from our President.

60,000 jobs right now! Why not?

Thanks to everyone....have a wonderful Thursday!

Rhonda and her Firebird are back!!

2010-01-27T10:13:00.002-05:00

Rhonda is an American who pays taxes and like you and I are tired of the waste by everyone involved with the Bailouts!

GM finally made a great decision for the taxpayer by getting rid of Saab. This was going to cost taxpayers at least $100 million if they had not gotten rid of it.

GM has already wasted about $500 million or more by closing down Pontiac and Saturn; not to mention destroying about 120,000 jobs in the process. When do we stop this nonsense? When do we get our property back to use for American jobs?

Don't give up, keep fighting for these venerable brands and American jobs! Thanks and have a blessed Wednesday!!

2010-01-22T13:20:00.002-05:00

Another Fan Photo. CYA from Motortopia sends this 78 T/A. Great car, Nice lady!

We started a news story process with the Nashville Tennessean yesterday. let;s see if they pick it up...moving national next week.

We are making great progress and each day I want to take the time to thank everyone of you that supports Savingpontiac.org!!

Scott Brown Wins!!

2010-01-20T11:22:00.000-05:00

Scott Brown has taken the country by storm. We are confident that the voters will begin to see that we need to use all the assets we have in the proper way. Like Pontiac and the Spring Hill plant.

We have a new politically connected new sponsor that we are hopeful will be able to move the needle with the Administration. Stay on board and contact your representative. Now is the right time while the political sands are blowing!

My thanks to everyone!!

2009-12-14T10:24:00.002-05:00

My apologies to all...i took a few days off. I was working on what appears to be some high level support for our cause. Needed business plans, memos, backup and so forth.

Sorry about that. Our petition continues to grow, our twitter followers are very significant and the site hits continued to be active in my absence. That all is great!!

We continue to believe that we are positioned to be successful. Our President needs jobs, the dealers are descending on Washington, and the approval ratings continue in a downward spiral. All we need is Pontiac. Keep strong behind our cause; we are making progress! Thanks for all the support; happy Monday!

Where We Started

2009-12-06T07:27:00.003-05:00

Good Sunday Morning to All! Very cold here, hope you are warm.

I was thinking about the heritage of Pontiac and for those that are unfamiliar visit Wikipedia (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Oakland_(automobile)). Oakland was the predecessor to Pontiac, started by Edward Murphy and purchased by GM in 1909.
It is good to look back and remember our roots. Savingponitac.org continues to remember that our purpose is to Save jobs for Americans and re-invent the great American Icon; Pontiac.

Out thanks go out to all our supporters and with our hopes that you have a blessed Sunday!!

GM Growing Up

2009-12-03T05:48:00.002-05:00

Good Thursday Morning!

The Fritz Henderson episode is really quite interesting. GM for the first time in a very long time appears to have some adult supervision. Ed Whitacre will change at least the Senior management view of the world at GM. Can he cause the focused and profit motivated message to waft through the halls of middle management and on the shop floor to occur in time will be the test.

This is a true test of how to change a culture with a culture that does not want to change. It is a project of monumental proportions and truly the only chance for the Detroit icon to continue to exist. Can Whitacre do it? We will see. Savingpontiac.org is rooting for him because with logical thinking (as opposed to GM thinking) it is likely that Pontiac can be broken free and reintroduced to the public as a vehicle for creating jobs and helping the economy recover (which also helps GM) rather than being buried 6 feet under with all the productive assets. Let's watch this unfold!!

Thanks, as always to all our followers!

2009-12-02T05:53:00.003-05:00

Good Morning to everyone ...Happy Wednesday!

I will start by admitting that I am unfamiliar with anyone that had an affair with Tiger Woods. Isn't that news on every blog on the internet?

The dispatch of Fritz Henderson is an interesting headline. I am sure that Fritz is a smart man and one who really wanted to change GM. Unfortunately, as we know, a tiger cannot change his stripes. Fritz was a product of learning everything he knew about business and management from the guys that were driving GM into the ground. We all reach into our bag of experience to manage in unstable environments. The result for Fritz was when reaching he got a handful of nothing. He had no experience to draw from and his employee loyalties precluded making ocean boiling changes.

Truly this occurrence spotlights the beauty of recreating Pontiac. We can start over with no lingering loyalties and preconceived notions. There is no "Pontiac way". We continue to be excited about our likely success and as we make progress are excited about all the possibilities!

Have a wonderful Wednesday.

Turkey Hangover?

2009-11-27T06:03:00.002-05:00

Good morning to all!

I ate to much...and you?

We believe that Savingpontiac.org continues to be a desirable alternative to President Obama's current difficulties. Healthcare, Global Warming, the economy and various initiatives have not been received well by the electorate.

If he will announce creating 40,000 jobs using our formula, we think this will change the way, at least some, view his efforts. Without taking sides, our country needs some very good jobs news and an indication that our leaders are on the side of Americans. We are it! Let's see how the next few days play out.

Have a Great Friday....so many thanks to each of you!! (special note: Adam Wollensak and Donnell Hicks)

Happy Thanksgiving!

2009-11-26T06:54:00.002-05:00

We truly hope you and yours find the time to be thankful today!

Enjoy this Holiday and relax.

We will continue our efforts tomorrow!

Thanks to you our members!

2009-11-25T10:24:00.002-05:00

Good Morning to everyone on the day before Turkey day! Thankful to be here as the alternative is not appealing!

Sorry I got distracted from the Blog this morning. I was working on the new editorial. Take a look, it is very sad to me that GM could be owned by China.

At any rate have a wonderful day today and a great Thanksgiving if you do not check in tomorrow!!

GM is Amazing

2009-11-24T05:28:00.002-05:00

Good morning to everyone. We wish you a happy Tuesday!

GM gets the woofy award this morning. Recently GM tanked the deal to sell Opal to a Canadian firm backed by the German Government and a Russian bank. This amounted to an $8 to $10 Billion commitment to the restructuring of Opal throughout Europe. The move created hard feelings with Governments all over Europe.
Yesterday we learn that now GM is begging for Government loans to accomplish the restructuring of Opal. And oh, by the way, Chancellor Angela Merkel of Germany is admonishing all Governments not to be lending to the Americans. What does this tell us? That GM had no plan and no idea how they would restructure Opal; they just decided that they did not want to sell. How can you have no plan and no direction with a bankrupt company that commits billions to a restructuring? The answer of course is this kind of decision is exactly what landed GM in the predicament that they are currently in.

The US taxpayers will ultimately pay for this act. It makes me crazy...and you? Please have a blessed day today!!

The Crush of Quiet

2009-11-23T10:55:00.003-05:00

Our politicians crave and exist on being heralded by constituents calling for more great programs. It must be very quiet to those ears accustomed to cheers by the voters.

Please let our congressmen know that JOBS NOW is one way to restore those accolades. Savingpontiac.org is one way to get those jobs now! After all we would hate our politicians to be lonely!

Have a great day everyone and please write your congressmen about savingpontiac.org. We need your help!!

What Grand Prix used to be...

2009-11-20T04:49:00.002-05:00

Good Morning to all.....

Isn't this a great car? The Grand Prix used to be a luxury car with a big engine. Hard to believe sometimes...I remember them well and thought they were even better than the luxury car Bonneville.

We are fueled by the memories of greatness past. If we have success, perhaps we can bring the feeling back to Pontiac.

Our thanks to each of you for your support...have a blessed Friday!

Six Days for Spring Hill

2009-11-19T06:44:00.002-05:00

Good morning on Thursday.

I do not know if you saw the article about the GM Plant in Spring Hill, TN is closing in 6 days. I think this is truly a sad event. This plant was where the Saturn launched about 20 years ago. It is one of GM's most advanced facilities...and it is owned by taxpayers. Oh well, just another 2,000 people laid off.

This event reflects why Savingpontiac.org was formed. This plant does not need to close. This plant does not have to be withheld from the taxpayers. We need to use it saving Pontiac!
Let's use our twitter accounts, write or email our congressmen and generally try and raise awareness that the taxpayers and all Americans deserve better than this!! Go get em!!

Thanks to all and have a blessed Thursday!!

Twitter

2009-11-18T04:54:00.004-05:00

Good Wednesday morning!

As began putting together our website it was thought that twitter might be a good place to spread the word about our project. It is a great place to do just that. A couple of things about Twitter:

If our members have accounts there, we encourage them to tweet daily about our project. If you do not have an account please open one and help spread the word!

Secondly, we have recently learned about a twitter account called @guardianangels (www.gauardianangels.org). they are about saving jobs and helping one person find a job. Great purpose and great effort. Please join them and support the effort!

Have a great day...Hump day and all!

You Guys Rock!

2009-11-17T05:37:00.003-05:00

Good morning to Everyone!

I am not sure what happened but the belief that we can save Pontiac is growing. Our last 5 days of site hits is 100% more than the previous 5 days. It looks like everyone is now sharing our commitment to creating American Jobs and saving this American Icon...Thank you!

We have received some letter from amazing guys that have Pontiac flowing in their blood. They have described to me how they have been restoring our cars for the last 30 years and would drop everything to help with this project. It sure makes me feel wonderful to know you guys are on our team!!

Have a blessed Tuesday and thank you to everyone...You Rock!!!!

Thanks to Everyone

2009-11-16T05:36:00.002-05:00

Good Monday morning!

Savingpontiac.org had a great day yesterday! Our rate of new petition signatures and new members continues to grow at an accelerating pace. This is exciting. We usually do not see that much enthusiasm on Sunday. Each of you are truly the best of the best.

Each day we like to thank you for your excitement about saving this American Icon. Stay with us and please keep the word out that we are trying to save 40,000 American Jobs.

We hope that you have a wonderful Monday!!

We Continue to Grow

2009-11-15T06:30:00.002-05:00

We had a huge response to our editorial yesterday. That comes as no surprise since there is a great passion for these wonderful cars and there are many Americans out of work.

The latter category continues to climb as GM announced that 1/3 of Saab dealers will be closing. It seems a little strange that we continue to let bailed out GM lay off workers with taxpayer money. In addition to shipping the money in vast quantities to Europe.

On this wonderful Sunday we give thanks to each of you for contributing to our efforts and helping reach the American community!

Have a Great Sunday and have new people visit our site daily!

More Committed than Ever

2009-11-14T05:46:00.003-05:00

Good morning to everyone. Another beautiful day in ATL.

One of our fans at Motortopia sent this prototype photo of the 2010 Trans Am. Sure looks like a great Pontiac to me!! When I look at this picture I am reminded of the Heritage that GM is leaving behind. An icon of past greatness in America. When we produced what no other country dared; The Muscle Car.

I don't know about you but to me it seems that America needs a signature car other than the newest Buick or a two seater Cadillac to stir our emotions or for that matter the world's emotions. Consider all the people that have joined with us from Iceland and Norway...The world wants US cars.. great cars.... something other than a US Camry...You know? It makes me want to work harder to save Pontiac...and we are making progress.

Thanks everyone and have a wonderful weekend!!

Friday the 13th....you never know

2009-11-13T05:37:00.002-05:00

Good morning to everyone and Happy Friday the Thirteenth! While I am not very superstitious, Over the years I have actually had good luck on this day of reputed Bad luck...Maybe that will hold up.

Yesterday President Obama announced a job summit in December. Several of the prognosticators have suggested that he is searching for a way to create jobs. That tells us that we must raise our voices to be heard. We have JOBS, NOW!

During your daily routine today consider using your twitter or Facebook accounts to raise awareness, write your congressmen, fax a letter to Geithner, Bloom, and Gottlefinger. Get out there and hustle. Awareness is what counts right now.

My thanks to all and have a Happy and Blessed Friday!!

Oh My...What a decision!

2009-11-12T06:15:00.002-05:00

When was the last time you made a decision that required PM Vladimir Putin, Chancellor Angela Merkel and President Obama to comment on that decision and discuss it? GM's decision to back out of the Opal deal has brought head of state protests and employee outrage all over Europe and in Russia.

But don't worry, Gm says that these same Governments will be glad to give financing for the $8 to $10 Billion project. Yeah, Right!

The bottom line is that the funds spent on the reprise of Opal will be taxpayer funds and because of the anger surrounding Gm's action the cost should actually push, for you and me, above $10 Billion. Not to worry you are in good hands with GM!

A great day to all and thank you for your support!

Great Day Yesterday

2009-11-11T05:30:00.003-05:00

Good Morning to all. Another rainy day in The ATL...Hurricane IDA continues to pour generous amount of water here.

I believe that yesterday a new opportunity was opened for us. GM and all the participants have apparently agreed to send at least $8 Billion to Germany to fund Opal. This is $8 Billion of the taxpayers money. Truly outrageous!

Most Americans had a peculiar belief that their money would be used for rebuilding America and American Jobs. Now we learn that over 10% of the GM bailout is going overseas. Why is this OK?

I will try and get out a new letter for us to email and/or fax to various representatives. Healthcare seems to be on a small news break so now is a good time. Thanks for eveyones support and have a save and wonderful Wednesday!

Even More!

2009-11-10T05:51:00.002-05:00

Good Tuesday morning to all...a little rainy here in ATL. Hurricane nearby, I guess.

Ben Deutshman never gives up. Once again he has placed a piece in an important Pontiac publication.
In the most recent newsletter (wwwhighperformancepontiac.com) from High performance Pontiac they published Ben's letter to the editor about Savingpontiac.org. Great work Ben. Of note, is that at the end of the letter the Editor of the magazine suggested that the members visit us here on our website.
Thank you again, Ben. We always appreciate the effort and enthusiasm.

Our thanks to all our members for their support saving this great company! Have a great Tuesday!

SAVINGPONTIAC.ORG

2009-11-09T05:57:00.002-05:00

Good Monday morning!

A number of changes to your website were made over the weekend. The biggest change was adding a page for our Friends. While there are more additions coming, this page proudly displays the sites and members that have jumped on board to give us a hand. We very much appreciate every effort by each of them!

Our newest editorial piece was posted on a number of sites yesterday and of course you can read it on our home page. Please take a moment and see what you think.
All other changes were largely cosmetic and you may not even notice them.

Have a great Monday; I hope it is a terrific day for you!

Government Motors

2009-11-08T07:28:00.002-05:00

Good Sunday Morning to all! A little cold for my liking in ATL.

One of our members emailed a video of his impression of a Government Motors performance car. Another reason to save Pontiac.

Take a look!

Have a Great Sunday; all friends and family are needed on our petition!!

Great Work Ben

2009-11-07T07:22:00.004-05:00

One of our early members, Ben Deutschman has really helped our cause! This week The Eagle which is the club News letter for the National Firebird Trans AM Club published a full page information piece about Savingpontiac.org. It is through Ben's efforts and all our members that we continue to grow and make a difference.

I would like to invite each of you to join the efforts of Ben to reach for national exposure of our organization. Previously, The Dallas Pontiac club and our members from Norway have provided this national exposure.
A special thank you to Ben, from all of us at Savingpontiac.ORG

Ben Deutschman is a member of the National Firebird Trans Am club, The legislative liaison for both The Pontiac-Oakland International Club and the Pontiac Registry, and the President of The NY/NJ Slant Six Club of America.

We thank all our members for the help and hope you have a great Saturday!!

So its Friday!

2009-11-06T05:57:00.002-05:00

Thinking about cruisin', listening to great music, Tops down. This is when we appreciate our cars and appreciate that we can enjoy them.

Pontiac continues to be my choice of cruisin' cars....yours also, I suspect.

We have already posted commentary this morning in the WSJ, NYT, and Newsweek. We are relentless. We thank you for your support and hope you have a great weekend!

Timing is Everything

2009-11-05T06:42:00.002-05:00

WOW, what a political backdrop for our efforts. The round pegs are going in the round holes and the square pegs are also fitting where they should.

The election results of Tuesday as mentioned by many writers is that most voters are not happy with the current agenda or the status quo. The pundits are announcing that our leaders need to focus on the economy and jobs to satisfy the voters. This is exactly where Savingpontiac.org wants to be.

We have 40,000 shovel ready jobs...NOW! We have a solution for the electorate. We have what elected officials need to create voter satisfaction for incumbents. It is very important to keep contacting your elected officials by phone, fax or email. Bring us to the top of the agenda!

Keep pushing everyone....we will get there. Thanks for your support!!

Takin' us to Congress

2009-11-04T05:48:00.003-05:00

Yesterday our members launched an email campaign to Congress. My thanks to all the participants. This is an important step. We heard back from several members that the list we used was flawed and had some bad email addresses.

We will try again with another list soon. The secondary problem was full email boxes of the addressees. I suspect this had to do with many people emailing about healthcare.

While there were difficulties, this was an important step toward informing and gathering knowledge and support. We are making progress. We wish everyone a great Wednesday and look forward to our next effort to reach those who can help our effort!

2009-11-03T05:39:00.003-05:00

Good morning to all....Fred Bloch started with a 1970 GTO (top) and turned it into the 1970 GTO on the bottom. This is great work and a beautiful car. Wonder if anyone is working on refurbishing an Aztec or a Vibe. Pontiac needs to be what it used to be. The brand has so many connotations and connections to when America was a great car manufacturer.

We continue to puzzle over the Government not letting the taxpayers use their GM assets to create jobs. We continue to puzzle over why the UAW does not want to create jobs for it's members. GM's current cash burn is about $4.5 billion per month. We have asked for less than one month of their cash burn. Let's hope the Administration wakes up soon and realizes that the taxpayers want results, not cash burn.

Thanks to all...one of our members will publish a new blog and a twitter page in the next week or so. More Pontiac; that is a good thing! Have a great Tuesday!

More Window Dressing?

2009-11-02T09:14:00.003-05:00

Sorry we have been gone for a couple of days. Attending to some family matters. Thanks for standing by.

We have launched, today, a series of articles with various news organizations in the US. The tenor of the article is "How, with the country in desperate need of jobs can Treasury and the Government ignore using the assets that the Taxpayer own?"

It is starting to seem like a contrived event to ignore the taxpayers again. Savingpontiac.org continues a relentless effort to inform and encourage our Government of the need for jobs and those that are available today in the auto industry with no additional investment in plant or brand.

It appears that the Treasury would rather throw money at banks then create more jobs with little investment. Keep writing the Congress and helping with our membership. Thanks to you all and have a great Monday!!

Now More than Ever

2009-10-30T08:00:00.002-04:00

Good morning Everyone.

Amazing day Yesterday. We learned that cash for Clunkers cost Americans about $24,000 per trade in. We learned that we have spent $350 Billion in tarp money to create less than 30,000 jobs. Lastly, GM and GMAC are back at the Government trough to fill up again so they can lose some more of your money!

It is time for a change. As you know we believe that Savingpontiac.org can create about 40,000 jobs and we ask that The New Pontiac only receive a $4 billion loan that will be paid off within 5 years. would you make changes in a NFL team with this record? GM and GMAC are truly the 0 and 16 Detroit lions of Business.

Yes we can! (For real) thanks for your daily support.....bring friends, family, and co workers to sign our petition. Have a great Friday!!!

Happy Thursday

2009-10-29T06:05:00.003-04:00

Good morning and thanks for stopping by.

We have been posting almost daily in the NYT and WSJ with commentary on the economy and of course the jobs promised by Savingpontiac.org

Yesterday we began a letter writing campaign with the British press. We believe that we can help urge our legislators through the foreign press. We will see where it leads.

Our membership is approaching 300 and our petition is approaching 600 signatures. All of this is very positive. With your help each of these will continue to grow significantly. Our thanks to each of you for getting family, friends, neighbors and co-workers to sign up.

All things considered, we are moving ahead nicely and we are optimistic that the need for jobs will eventually (after health care is finished) find our little corner and embrace our proposition.

Have a wonderful Thursday and help us save Pontiac!

Interesting Sunday

2009-10-26T06:07:00.002-04:00

There was a great piece in the New York Times that underscored our belief that the assets being tossed aside by GM actually belong to the Taxpayers. The article went on to say that in fact the writer would not buy a GM car until all assets of GM had been utilized to the benefit of the Taxpayers that had bailed out GM.

The word is spreading that the taxpayers deserve something other than more of the same worn products and sales strategies from The Renaissance Center in Detroit. I have pointed the authors attention to our site sharing with him that his comments were the genesis of our site and our beliefs. More support for Savingpontiac.org.

An Associate called last night to share that he was in the process of setting up meetings with a Congressman and a Senator that are interested in our project. We are making real progress here!!

Thanks to everyone for their support.....Have a great Monday!

Plans for the week

2009-10-25T07:02:00.002-04:00

We continue to see rising interest in our project. Always encouraging.

I do not know if you have taken the survey which is now a link on the front page, but this is from a Norwegian student living in Singapore that needs the answers on this Pontiac survey for a paper she is writing...just thought we could help.

This week I will provide a formatted list of Congressmen email addresses and a suggested letter that we might send. I hope you can all email me and say "I did it". This can be very effective as the list includes the Congressmen and some of their office staff.

Have a great Sunday....thanks to everyone!

When less is more

2009-10-24T06:25:00.003-04:00

Funny thing happened on Twitter yesterday....(we now have over 1,000 followers).

A Lady from California said two things to me. "Are you competitive?" and "The site doesn't sell me". Were these typical off the cuff Net remarks or were they from someone that actually read the site? While I do not know which for certain, I thought about the comments as the latter. Know what, she's right. Those few words got me thinking about what else we should add to our presentation. (I will admit this is a can't see the forest for the trees situation)

Over the next day or so, we will combine and condense the thoughts about competitiveness and what we believe Pontiac can differentiate in the sea of automobiles. Of equal importance is a condensed version of financial performance we believe is possible with The New Pontiac.

Simple and elegant questions are often better than droning about errors and omissions. Our thanks to Sprite.

Many thanks to each of you reading this and following Savingpontiac.org. Have a Great Saturday!

Kia Has Record Earnings

2009-10-23T06:08:00.003-04:00

It was announced this morning that KIA had record earnings last quarter of $339 Million. Kia's newest plant is getting ready to open in the United States.

Do you suppose that this car maker that just set record earnings during the worst economic downturn in 75 years is planning on failure in the US? NO! There is a huge amount to be made here on automobiles; Kia knows that. Why is it that our legislators are letting GM throw away Pontiac when we, the taxpayers, could be creating jobs and making cars NOW?
This is all so very clear except to Ron Bloom and Congress...let's press harder.
Happy Friday to all...thank you for your support!!

Fax work

2009-10-21T08:51:00.003-04:00

Yesterday we began faxing a letter that went to The Treasury Secretary, Ron Bloom, The Canadian Minister of Finance and the President of the UAW, International. We are merely suggesting that they implement our recommendations that would save 40,000 jobs almost overnight. Hopefully they will be able to consider our recommendation while locking the meeting doors in the Capital.

Someone asked me the other day why anyone would consider Savingpontiac.org to help reorganize the Car industry. We do not know anything about making cars. My response was we know how to make money which is a characteristic missing from all the GM executives. If the "car guys" can't make money why would you rely on them to remake the industry? (see NYT article today about how appalling the conditions at GM were when the first bailout occurred).

Thanks everybody....Have a great Wednesday!!

Time to use our passion

2009-10-20T06:58:00.002-04:00

Good morning to everyone. Happy Tuesday!

We have all been watching the news of the past few days. Things look pretty bleak, right now. It seems to me that could be very good for Savingpontiac.org. The public is screaming for more jobs NOW. The Government is looking for a poster child for job creation (they need good news). The message is "Look, Mr. President, here is your chance. Let's save Pontiac".

With that thought in mind, perhaps we can leverage our little group to push the decision over the edge. Later this morning, I will forward to our members a letter that I will ask that you fax to several people (Timothy Geithner, Treasury Secretary, Ron Bloom, Special Asst. to the President, and others.) I will also provide fax numbers. I believe that we have the right timing and the right message to at least require some consideration of our cause.

This is the first of many chances to raise our profile with those who can make decisions. I read a quote recently from Wayne Gretsky, to paraphrase "You will miss 100% of the goals that you never shoot to make". Let's give it our best! Thanks to everyone for your support!

Our promoters

2009-10-19T05:39:00.002-04:00

We have had a great deal of excitement throughout the Internet with number of sites jumping in with us to save Pontiac. I would like to mention a few here:
www.ultimategto.com
http://blog.thefreedomreviewonline.com
www.highperformancepontiac.com
www.motortopia.com
www.motortrend.com
http://www.ohok.com/82recaro
www.myclassiccar.com
http://sportscarforums.com

It is difficult to mention all of them but these are some key supporters of the effort.
Thanks to all our supporters and I hope you have a wonderful Monday!!

Rhonda and her Firebird

2009-10-18T08:52:00.003-04:00

Rhonda sent me this photo on Motortopia.

It reminded me of two things. First, Savingpontiac.org is very happy with the female participation on our site. I would guess that 30% to 35% of our members are female. I did not expect that when I started this site.

Secondly, with Rhonda pictured with her car, it reminded me how each person that has joined or signed our petition is just that, an individual that has taken time to support us. Some days we can take for granted that an individual has spent time to express their passion about Saving the Pontiac brand.

It is that reason that I thank you all daily and wish you a Happy day! Stick with us, we are making progress. I will try and get out a member email update today. HAPPY SUNDAY!

Our Reach expands

2009-10-17T05:58:00.002-04:00

Some days running Savingpontiac.org is very interesting.

On Facebook, I have learned that the Pontiac enthusiasts in the UK are focused on Kitt, from Knight Ryder....Remember the Hoff? Wonder if Kitt drives him home after a night out.

This week I learned about the following of Pontiac in the Nordic countries. Specifically, Iceland and Norway. The DAPA article was republished from this site here: http://www.amcar.no/page.asp?Pa rentID=313&MenuID=418&DocID=940 7&Order=2. As a result, we have many members that have signed up from those countries. Even more interestingly we have more members from these very cold places than many of our domestic Pontiac Clubs...not sure what that means.

Thanks for everyones help and enthusiasm....we continue the efforts!!

Does this make you angry?

2009-10-16T05:29:00.003-04:00

GM headlines in the last few days: Closing National parts HQ; Beating Chinese sales targets; Looking at investing in India.

You and I (Taxpayers) gave GM over $70 Billion and this is how it is being used. We really need your help in stopping this idiocy. What we get; have gotten is a slap in the face and more jobs eliminated. This is from the people that ran GM into the ground.

When does American money get spent on Americans? Where are the jobs for Americans? If they spent the money on saving Pontiac or Saturn or both, that could be up to 200,000 American jobs. Instead they will go to New Dehli and make a 2 cylinder scooter. Come on, man!

Please sign the petition; get your friends and family to sign and help stop the insanity. My thanks to everyone! Have a great Friday!!

Obama wants to create jobs...we got 'em!

2009-10-15T05:42:00.002-04:00

Good morning:

Yesterday President Obama announced in Louisiana that he was looking everywhere to create jobs. He need not look an further than Savingpontiac.org. It seems that creating jobs is Obama's job number one.

In that vein, now would be a great time to write your congressional representatives about our efforts and what is available, just under the hood. Our website has a section that will help you find your representatives and I encourage each of you to write to them now.

Thanks, as always to everyone and have a great Thursday!!

Comments to NYT and WSJ

2009-10-14T12:38:00.003-04:00

Hi everyone.

We spent this moring sending comments to the WSJ and NYT about creating jobs and providing Job leadership. Please see my comments on the front page of the Site.

Thanks to all....have a great Wednesday!!

Sometimes you wonder

2009-10-13T06:00:00.003-04:00

Life over the weekend was very hectic.

Our members went up another 10% and the petition signatures are accelerating again. Highperformancepontiac.com has us on the front page of their site. Another member has volunteered to distribute fliers in his area. WOW!

We also got our first Pontiac dealer to join as a dealer and not an individual. All is good, and we are growing very well!

We are truly blessed by having the dedicated and enthusiastic members and followers. As one member said, "We cannot let the icon die!".

Have a great Tuesday!

Sometimes it feels like Britney is driving

2009-10-09T05:20:00.002-04:00

We continue to see momentum building quickly.

Yesterday, the discussions about Black Oak's auto flea market continued. Our Web site had the third largest day in hits. The petition signatures increased almost 10%. Chief Pontiac social media followers increased 16%. We have followers putting out fliers in the Ohio Valley. The Dallas Area Pontiac Association shared a full page newsletter article they are printing. Delorean Motors is rumored to be interested in Pontiac.
Wow...you guys are amazing.

It is 5:30 AM here and I am very excited to see what today will bring. While a little trite, all I can say is thank you to everyone that has made this possible...YOU are truly the best.

Have a great Friday!!

2009-10-08T09:31:00.002-04:00

Good Morning to everyone.

Interesting day yesterday. A new deal was announced to buy Saturn with a very different business plan. A venture firm, Black Oak, proposed to buy Saturn from GM and turn it into, with out meaning to be derogatory, a flea market for cars.

There idea is to take cars manufactured by foreign companies, put the Saturn label on them, and put them on the sales lot. For example, if an Indian company starts making a good electric car but has no US distribution, they would put the Saturn logo on it and sell it. At 50,000 feet it sounds like a pretty good model. I am wondering about US car buyers and the difficulty with warranty and repair of "one off" manufacturers.

If it works, my hat is off to them!

Have a great day, ALL!!

2009-10-07T14:52:00.002-04:00

Hey everybody...a great day!

Highest total in a week on our site. Not sure of the cause but I must thank each of our followers for the effort. I wanted to share an email from one of our members, Adam:

As I have been telling more and more people about our site, I figured I should ask you if it would be ok for me to make flyers to advertise the site around the Ohio/Pennsylvania Vally's. This should help boost signatures ten fold and get people more aware about what is being done to save Pontiac. What do you think?

Thanks Adam...this is great and wonderful effort....Thank you so very much for going above and beyond!

2009-10-06T09:21:00.002-04:00

Good morning to all...

We continue to grow at a great rate. While we did not reach our goal last Saturday of 1,000 signatures we did double them over the previous week. That is pretty good for Saving our brand!

I will send our an update of our progress to all members this morning.

For all you twitterers, please use that forum to drum up support for our cause. I have found a great deal of receptivity to our cause on the Twitter platform. Otherwise....I hope you guys have a great day today.

2009-10-05T05:42:00.003-04:00

Many have said that no one wants Pontiac to return...It is dead. Here are a few quotes from our members; you make the call:

"I have owned a Pontiac for the last 15 years a 1973 Pontiac Grand Am.Pontiac must not ever die,its or history,a way we grew up."
"Without Pontiac, I don't foresee myself buying a new GM car ever again. Used? Sure. But I will never willingly give my dollars to GM directly."
"I have always been a Pontiac fan and own a 1981 Pontiac Transam. I can't believe the government won't back one of the most popular and best car companies in the world."

Seems like we have some enthusiasm here.

2009-10-04T09:22:00.002-04:00

More inquiries yesterday. A group of employees in Illinois are interested in joining the team making this dream a reality. I am very encouraged with the number of people interested in our project. It is thanks to you, our members that this is possible.

Special note to Gordon for posting our cause in the Wall Street Journal!

Have a great Sunday!!

2009-10-03T11:09:00.002-04:00

Great news today! We have begun initial discussions with top level officials in Tennessee. It seems that when the Penske deal fell through for Saturn that the Spring Hill, TN crowd was interested in alternatives. We are it.

This is huge and I must thank all who have join and signed the petition for supporting us from the beginning....Pontiac really might be back. Happy Saturday!!

Saturn: another sad day

2009-10-01T06:37:00.001-04:00

Having the Saturn deal fall through is truly another blow to American jobs and The American automobile business. It was reported that this is the loss of another 13,000 jobs. I suspect that is direct jobs. The multiplier for total jobs (direct and indirect)in the auto business is reported to be somewhere between 3 and 9 times the direct jobs....you do the math. It is truly too bad to lose this grand experiment.

We at Savingpontiac.org find it amazing that our government can spend or commit around $19 Trillion, as reported in Newsweek, for the bailout and send 91% to Wall street and banks but refuse to further support direct and indirect jobs in the main street economy. I am hopeful that with Pontiac we will see a different outcome.

Have a Great Thursday!!

Another Plant is gone

2009-09-30T09:13:00.003-04:00

Good Morning everyone. The Picture up-loader was not working this morning so I guess we are without a photograph.

Well, General Motors closed another plant today (see http://www.thebigmoney.com/features/todays-business-press/2009/09/30/detroit-sings-pick-blues). 3.4 Million square feet of a facility where Pontiacs could be built. Each of the readers here are, as Taxpayers, the owners of that plant and the Pontiac Brand. Is this is the use you want them used for? To sit idle when thousands of jobs could be created almost overnight?
Please make sure you have signed our petition.

WE CAN DO THIS TOGETHER!

Have a Great Wednesday.

A little late today

2009-09-29T14:17:00.001-04:00

Here is why:

September 29, 2009

Mr. Thomas A. Schatz
President, Citizens Against Government Waste

1301 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW

Suite 1075

Washington, DC 20004

Dear Mr. Schatz:

On behalf of the members of our organization, those that have signed our petition and the Taxpayers of the United States of America, I request that CAGW join with us to eliminate what is a waste of Taxpayer dollars by allowing the Pontiac Brand to be retired and serviceable factories to be closed or mothballed.

General Motors has received $80 Billion in Taxpayer’s funds which has resulted in the Taxpayers owning 61% of General Motors. Whether these payments were a waste can be debated for a long time and is not the point of this letter. What is to the point is that General Motors and the Treasury Department have elected to close Pontiac as part of the GM offerings. We at Savingpontiac.org believe GM should have jettisoned the Pontiac brand however we do not believe it should be closed down and thrown away.

The Taxpayers own the Plant facilities and the Brand (at least 61%). Saving Pontiac.org believes that with a Treasury department loan of up to $4 Billion to a New Pontiac, the Company, if run by profit, quality and customer oriented managers, could provide between 20,000 and 40,000 direct and indirect jobs Now and return to the economy and the Taxpayers as much as $50 Billion over 5 years.

The true waste is to throw away the assets that the Taxpayers own and ignore the possible upside to the economy. While $4 billion seems like a great deal of money, in perspective it truly is very little. $4 Billion is 4% of the total the Government has committed and spent on the Automobile industry. It is 5% of the amount already put into GM. It is less than 1.5% of the unspent TARP funds. Finally the $4 Billion is 2 hundredths of 1% of the $19 Trillion that has been spent or committed to the Bailout (Newsweek 9/26/09).

It is for these reasons that we ask that your organization join with us to attempt to take these “shovel Ready” jobs and put Americans to work, today. What we ask is “why is it OK for our Government to dispose of these assets without Taxpayer acquiescence?” If there was a referendum today, how would Americans vote to use the asset that they own?

Thank you for your interest;

Ben Holcomb, Executive Director